Sadiq Khan rounds on Westminster council for keeping ‘vertical drinking’ curbs on pubs
Summary
London Mayor Sadiq Khan criticized Westminster council for keeping strict rules that limit new bars and pubs in Soho, including bans on standing drinking ("vertical drinking"). Despite public opposition and a mayoral request to change the rules, the council is continuing with policies aimed at reducing nightlife activity, citing safety and policing concerns.Key Facts
- Westminster council has a "cumulative impact zone" that refuses most new bar and pub licenses in Soho unless under special circumstances.
- 81% of people who responded to a consultation disagreed with this licensing policy, and 84% said it would hurt business.
- The council restricts vertical drinking, preferring pubs to have table service and seated customers only.
- Mayor Khan demanded the council remove the cumulative impact zone and allow vertical drinking, but the council ignored this.
- Andy Burnham, the Prime Minister, supports vertical drinking as part of British culture.
- Westminster council says some objections came from people misunderstanding their policy language.
- The council argues that public safety and lack of police resources require strict controls on licenses.
- Between 2023 and 2026, only 3.5% of licensing applications were fully approved as requested in Westminster.
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